34 MAY 2023 By Mark Hays Veritas Prep Academy recently held its fifth annual Music Festival, an impressive collection of student-run bands and performers that play alongside local musicians at a neighborhood concert. In 2016, members of the Veritas community created a school-wide performance that would bring together students, parents, and local musical acts. “It was founded by Joey Spadafore, Peter Cosovich, Mark and Katherine Reckling (of the popular Arcadia band Sugahbeat), and Kim Seeley,” Festival co- chair Stephanie Beebe said. Spadafore is another current co-chair. This year, the event had local performers Jesse Valenzuela, Trio Rio, Blackstone III, and Calle Rosa at the school venue on 56th and Osborn. There was an extensive range of genres; rock, pop, classical, opera, and even barbershop. Audience members and students alike appreciated the participation of local bands. “They taught the kids how to perform, have stage presence and gave pointers on how to use their skills to reach a higher level. The kids value their insight greatly and take it to heart,” Beebe said. Encouraging students to embrace music is at the core of the concert’s mission. Beebe explained that the festival aims to help the kids explore their musical talents, build confidence, and foster the next generation of musical artists. She said that quite a few students continue their passion after graduation, and many have attributed the music festival to their desire to continue. Over 400 people turned up at this year’s event, which raised around $2,000 to help fund the Washington, DC, senior school trip. Leftover funds went back to the music department. “I love the music fest, and my experience is really positive. I love seeing others perform, and I love to perform also, so it’s a great event to do both,” Veritas singer Audrey Bitikofer said. “I think that’s part of why it’s such a good and fun experience. Another part is the fact that everyone there is super awesome, and the vibes are super good every year!” Local sponsors included The School of Rock, opening a location near Arcadia soon. They handed out free lesson tickets at the event. The school also planned on playing at the festival, but the bill was full. “The opportunity for the kids was wonderful, and the concert experience gets better year after year,” Beebe said. Students take the stage at Veritas Music Festival The Shave Shack band: Brennan Fisher, Luke Hurst, Jude Tawney, Benedict Tawney, Cade Huseth, Henry Burch and James Marvin. PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPHANIE BEEBE If you are currently working with an agent, please disregard. NATHAN ANDERSON + PAUL NICOLETTI 480.888.5800 | NATEANDPAUL.COM 5141 E EARLL DRIVE | ARCADIA OFFERED AT $2,775,000 FUTURE SPEC DEVELOPMENT YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO! SCAN HERE or Call 602.730.0668 Today ROC #314154 5151 E EARLL DRIVE | ARCADIA OFFERED AT $2,675,000 4244 E CATALINA DRIVE